MK Muthu, Karunanidhi’s Eldest Son, Dies
Chennai, Tamil Nadu: MK Muthu, the eldest son of former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M Karunanidhi, died in Chennai on Saturday, July 19, 2025, at the age of 77. His death, attributed to age-related ailments. He had been ailing for a considerable time and breathed his last at his residence on East Coast Road, reports said.
The news was confirmed by his half-brother, current Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin, who expressed profound grief. In a heartfelt statement, Chief Minister Stalin stated, “The news of the passing of my beloved elder brother, M.K. Muthu, the eldest child of the Muthamizh Arignar Kalaignar family, struck me like a thunderbolt this morning. The sorrow of losing my dear brother, who showed me affection equivalent to that of a mother and father, torments me.”
Born to Karunanidhi’s first wife, Padmavathi, in Thirukuvalai in 1948, MK Muthu was christened by his father in memory of Muthuvelar. Padmavathi sadly passed away at the young age of 20, shortly after Muthu’s birth, due to accelerated tuberculosis.
Following in his illustrious father’s footsteps, Muthu initially immersed himself in the Dravidian movement through dramas from his youth. His artistic flair, particularly his unique style in acting, dialogue delivery, and body language, propelled him into the film industry in 1970. He made a remarkable debut, starring in a dual role in his very first film. His filmography includes popular titles such as Pillaiyo Pillai, Pookkari, Samayalkaran, and Anaiya Vilakku, through which he endeared himself to audiences across Tamil Nadu.
MK Muthu possessed a rare and cherished talent: a melodious singing voice.
Chief Minister Stalin further reminisced about their personal bond, saying, “He always showed affection toward me, considered my growth as his own, and constantly encouraged me. Whenever I went to see him, he made it a habit to share old memories with affection.”
While initially envisioned as a potential political heir by his father to counter the influence of MG Ramachandran, Muthu’s political career did not fully blossom. He even had a brief stint with the AIADMK, which caused a temporary estrangement from his father. However, the father-son duo reconciled in 2009 after Muthu fell ill.
MK Muthu is survived by his wife, son, and daughter, Thenmozhi, who is married to CK Ranganathan, Managing Director of FMCG major CavinKare.
His body has been placed at his residence in Injambakkam, Chennai, for the public to pay their respects.
Chief Minister Stalin aptly concluded, “Brother M.K. Muthu will live forever in our hearts through his love, in the hearts of people through his art and songs. I offer my tribute with heartfelt love to my dear brother.”
